Web Resources

A selection of resources to help with your school campaign and curriculum

Social Issues Challenging Youth

The R Word—a Public Service Announcement (PSA)

This short video shares the message of how important it is to respect people with disabilities, including those with cognitive challenges. Encouragement is given to see the person and their abilities first.

This award-winning 90-second video “commercial” uses cutting-edge techniques and original music performed by 11 to 13-year old youth to depict challenges facing young people and the successful solutions provided by SS/HS. Watch

Stargirl

Stargirl. From the day she arrives at quiet Mica High in a burst of color and sound, the hallways hum with the murmur of "Stargirl, Stargirl." She captures Leo Borlock's heart with just one smile. She sparks a school-spirit revolution with just one cheer. The students of Mica High are enchanted. At first.

Then they turn on her. Stargirl is suddenly shunned for everything that makes her different, and Leo, panicked and desperate with love, urges her to become the very thing that can destroy her: normal. In this celebration of nonconformity, Newbery Medalist Jerry Spinelli weaves a tense, emotional tale about the perils of popularity and the thrill and inspiration of first love. Learn More

Words Hurt PSA—by the Ohio Commission on Dispute Resolution

This short video commercial shares realistic images of how students can bully each other through hurtful words.

Dear Parents—a PSA on Tolerance

In this 1:12 min. video, young people voice what they feel is important to learn from parents so they can grow to accept and respect individual differences. Watch the video here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qLIW8JWk1RI .

Haole—A Youth Speaks Hawai‘i Video Production

Slam poet Sterling Higa performs his poem Haole, a powerful writing which shares insights into growing up local and what it feels like to receive a label that invokes stereotypical images in Hawai‘i.

Christine—a Youth Speaks Hawai‘i video production

Slam Poet Jocelyn Ng delivers a heartfelt poem about Christine, who is deaf. The relationship between these two friends is felt as Jocelyn tries to understand the unique world of her friend, where sound is absent from a lifetime of experiences.

Nick Vujicic—No Arms, No Legs, No Worries!

Imagine being born without arms. No arms to wrap around someone, no hands to experience touch, or to hold another hand with. Or what about being born without legs? Having no ability to dance, walk, run, or even stand on two feet. Now put both of those scenarios together: no arms and no legs. What would you do? How would that effect your everyday life? Watch the video here: No Arms No Legs No Worries from CDS Video on Vimeo.

Anti-Bullying PSAs: UH Athlete’s Speak Out Against Bullying

Through a collaboration with Waianae High School Searider Productions and the University of Hawai‘i Athletic Department, a series of Anti-Bullying PSA’s were produced in 2011. The DOE and BOE are working on a comprehensive “Peaceful Schools” program that will employ best practices to combat bullying and ensure every student is respected, honored and valued.

Pono Resources

2013 Pono Campaign Compilation

2014 E Ola Pono PSA - Extended

Aha Weave featuring John Kaimikaua

The ‘aha represents a traditional Hawaiian way of caring for each other and the land, explains the late Kumu Hula John Kaimikaua as he demonstrates how to make a rope that represents this traditional leadership concept. Consider exploring how this concept might help bring lkahi (balance) and pono (respect & harmony) to individuals and schools.

Dalai Lama Interview

This short 1:26 min. video features the Dalai Lama sharing that “we are all the center of our own universe”. He also talks about his dream for an ideal world, which can be a great model for students to create their own vision or dream. The Dalai Lama envisions “more prosperity, more equal, all the environment is clean and pure, and that people truly live as genuine brothers and sisters”. Watch

Emotional Intelligence Video

This young children’s video offered by thoughts.co.za was created in South Africa to expand the principles of emotional intelligence to help equip people with the competence required to achieve success and fulfillment. This 9 minute video helps children understand how to master thoughts and emotions. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U_iNq449LAo

HYCF Storyboards from CDS Video

Watch presentations by young men from the Hawai‘i Youth Correctional Facility who focused on understanding the meaning of pono. The youth were then asked to create storyboards about what they learned. Their knowledge of this concept is evident as they show their artwork and share their personal interpretations of E Ola Pono, living with respect for everyone and in harmony with everything.

Life in these Islands—Living Pono

View part of the 90 minute television special Life in These Islands, created by local videographer Don Mapes and aired in 2010. This 10 minute section is entitled Living Pono, and it shares a deeper understanding of this foundational Hawaiian guiding principle. Featured in this segment is the Got Pono? Campaign initiated at Keaukaha Elementary School, which positively impacted student academic success as well as the social/emotional environment for everyone on campus.

Power of the Word ‘Ōlelo No‘eau—by Blanche Pope Elementary School students

These elementary students have used a traditional saying from Hawaiian culture to share a powerful message about words and how they can impact people, in both good and bad ways. They hope to influence everyone to use words that that are positive and empowering.

Don’t Bully—by Kohala Middle School students

We All Belong—by Heeia Elementary School students

Local Resources

A Place In the Middle

A PLACE IN THE MIDDLE is the true story of a young Hawaiian girl who dreams of leading her school's all-male hula troupe, and of an inspiring teacher who uses traditional culture to empower her. Find out more, download free guides and resources, and take the Pledge of Aloha at the project website, aplaceinthemiddle.org.

BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS HAWAI’I

Since 1963, Big Brothers Big Sisters Hawaiʻi has served our island communities by making meaningful, monitored mentoring matches between volunteers (“Bigs”) and children ages 6 through 18 (“Littles”). Their mission is to provide children facing adversity with strong and enduring, professionally supported one-to-one relationships that change their lives for the better, forever. Learn More

Da Moms

Da Moms is a support group for Parents & Families of the LGBT community at large. Da Moms work to bring about greater understanding, love & inclusion in families and throughout our community. Learn more

Eddie Aikau Foundation

The Eddie Aikau Foundation was created to share the life, contributions and accomplishments of this local hero while promoting education and Hawaiian culture. The Foundation strives to inspire people to develop a strong sense of pride in themselves, their heritage and their community through Eddie’s remarkable spirit and character. They offer an annual essay contest and volunteer opportunities. Learn more

Equality Hawai‘i

Equality Hawai‘i Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to securing equality for Hawaii’s lesbian, gay, bisexual & transgender community. Their Web site includes educational materials, information on current local and global human rights issues, and links to other Web sites promoting equity for everyone. Learn more

GLSEN – Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network

The Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network (GLSEN), wants every student in every school to be valued and treated with respect, regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression. Members of this organization believe that all students deserve a safe and affirming school environment where they can learn and grow. Learn more Hawaii Chapter email: hawaii@chapters.glsen.org

GSA Hawai‘i

GSA Hawai‘i is a state-wide network that assists and connects Gay-Straight Alliances (GSAs) in Hawaii’s schools. GSAs are student clubs that work to improve school climate for everyone at their school by promoting respect, acceptance and tolerance. Learn more

Hale Kipa/Youth Outreach

With a range of services for at-risk, high-risk youth, Hale Kipa improves the lives of youth through shelter, support, commitment and advocacy. Learn more

Information is provided for both students and parents on what they can do to promote safe environments at school. Data shared is provided by the U. S. Department of Education. Learn more

Hawai‘i Families As Allies

Hawaii Families As Allies (HFAA) is a 501(c)(3) statewide parent-controlled family network organization, recognized in Hawaii and nationally as a voice on behalf of families of children and youth with emotional and/or behavioral challenges. HFAA’s mission is to support families whose children and youth have emotional and/or behavioral challenges through education, technical assistance and advocacy. HFAA Coordinates the “Make a Friend be a Friend” – a program for Elementary students. Learn more

Hawai‘i Youth Services Network

HYSN promotes the well-being of youth and the strengthening of families and communities by providing leadership, encouraging collaboration, and building partnerships. HYSN increases the capacity of youth-serving organizations and individuals through training and technical assistance, builds partnerships and collaborations among organizations, and workers to ensure that policies, programs and resources are in place to meet the needs of youth and their families. Learn more

HEARTS: HAWAI’I EDUCATION OF THE ARTS

HEARTS Hawai‘i Education of the ARTS offers challenging choir, dance and theatre programs for Hawai‘i’s youth from kindergarten through college. HEARTS has built its reputation on consistently high quality arts instruction and events, while enhancing the character and lives of young people. Learn More

Hoa ‘Aina O Makaha

Hoa ‘Aina O Makaha is an educational program started in 1979 as an alternative learning center for youth. By focusing on traditional Hawaiian values, participants learn how to care about themselves as they care for the land, Since its conception, the program has expanded to different projects, all guided by the Hoa ‘Aina mission statement: “Creating Peaceful Communities in Harmony with Nature, through the Eyes, Hands and Hearts of the Children”. Learn more

Ho‘ala School

Ho‘ala is a small, private K-12 college-preparatory school, nationally recognized as a model for character education. This school’s “implicit curriculum” is at the core of Ho‘ala’s philosophy, which emphasizes the importance of adults modeling pono, or appropriate behavior through their own actions and attitudes. The teachers are dedicated to creating an atmosphere where students “feel needed, listened to, and taken seriously”. This environment empowers students to take responsibility for their actions. Students learn skills in conflict resolution, effective listening and speaking, and how to live with purpose, respect, and integrity. This foundation has impacted student success, evidenced by consistently high traditional assessment scores. Learn more

Hokulani School Peace Garden

Hokulani Elementary School, located at the base of Saint Louis Heights, is home to a Peace Garden that supports the focus for their philosophy and curriculum. At this peace-centered elementary school, the word “PEACE” means more than “freedom from strife of any kind”. Each letter of the word represents a pillar of understanding that everyone at the school strives to achieve. The students learn about People everywhere, Environmental awareness, Active Citizenship, Conflict resolution, and Equality of opportunity. Check under Academics at their Web site. Learn more

Honokaa Peace Parade

The Hawai‘i Island community of Honoka‘a focuses on promoting peace each September by hosting annual special events that are held in association with the United Nations International Day of Peace. Their 6th Annual celebration occurred between Sept 17 and 22, 2012. Included was a “Read for Peace” Day, a Day of Mindfulness, Forgiveness, and Personal Peace, and an annual Parade, Festival, and 5k Run for Peace. Learn more

Honolulu Theater for Youth

Honolulu Theatre for Youth (HTY) believes that drama education and theatre are unique, socially-based education and art forms that help their participants and audiences walk in the shoes of others, allowing them to expand their imaginations, enrich their lives and discover the infinite possibilities in the world. HTY works towards a future for Hawai‘i in which people are culturally literate and imaginative, are critical thinkers and inventive problem solvers, with a respect for history and a sense of place in a complex world. Learn more

Kanu Hawai‘i

Members of this organization value their connection to place, the strength of Hawaii’s communities, diverse local traditions, and strong island values. Kanu members have concerns about our future, include shrinking opportunities, environmental degradation, the loss of communities, inequality, apathy, greed, and intolerance, in Hawai‘i and throughout the world. Learn how Kanu encourages members to share their voice and take action through pledges. Visit Kanu’s Web site to learn ways to make positive changes.Learn more

Ke Kaulike He Ha‘awina Kiwila—Civics Hawaiian Style

This curriculum offers supplemental lessons geared for 4th, 7th, and 11th grade Social Studies classes, and they focus on understanding character and sustainability. Lessons include resources on service learning and information about historical leaders and events in Hawai‘i as well as across the Pacific for Middle School students. Locally made videos are part of this curriculum, including one video produced by students from Ka‘u, Hawai‘i. Learn more

Keaukaha Elementary School

Keaukaha School’s Got Pono? Program is an extension of the Hawai‘i State’s Positive Behavioral Support initiative adopted from Dr. George Sugai’s Effective Behavioral Systems (EBS). The Got Pono? Program is a reflection of values, beliefs, and morals that are unique to the individual student, his/her own ‘ohana, and the community that he/she represents. Visit the Keaukaha School Web site to learn about the Got Pono? Program and how Keaukaha has become the piko (center) of the Keaukaha community.Learn more

Kokua Hawai‘i Foundation – ʻAina in the Schools

ʻĀINA In Schools is a farm-to-school initiative that connects children to their local land, waters, and food in order to grow a healthier Hawaiʻi. In addition to encouraging the use of locally grown fruits and vegetables in school meals and snacks, the program teaches kids to grow food in their own school gardens. Learn more

kupu – learn.serve.restore

Kupu empowers future generations to create a more sustainable, pono Hawai‘i. The organization provides hands-on training programs that educate and mentor youth to become stewards of our culture and environment, helping them develop a strong connection to the place in which we live. In Hawaiian, the word kupu means to “to sprout, grow” providing the backbone of the non-profit’s efforts to revive the people, land and the sea across Hawaiʻi. Learn More

Ma‘o Programs

Ma‘o Organic Farms offer a variety of community and education programs for youth and adults primarily based on the Waianae coast and/or on-site at the farm. All of their programs relate to their mission of ‘aina-based community development through growing good, organic food, and growing youth leaders. Learn more

Mental Health America of Hawai‘i

Mental Health America of Hawai‘i (MHA-Hawai‘i) is working with Hawai‘i’s schools, non-profits, and other youth-serving organizations to educate peers, parents, teachers, staff and community members about bullying and suicide in our state. Workshops include: Ho`olohe Pono: Youth Suicide and Bullying Prevention; I H8 U: Understanding the Impact of Cyber-bullying; and safeTALK—Suicide Alertness For Everyone. Learn more

Nā Hopena A‘o (HĀ)

A Department-wide framework to develop the skills, behaviors and dispositions that are reminiscent of Hawaiʻi’s unique context, and to honor the qualities and values of the indigenous language and culture of Hawaiʻi. Learn More

Pacific Justice and Reconciliation Center (PJRC)

The Hawai‘i Schools Peace with Aloha Project, which began 12 years ago, works with an estimated twenty participating schools and 400 students every year. Schools are invited to participate in a peace with aloha art and writing activity, which results in community exhibits and the publishing of materials that promote peace with aloha. Last year, Peace with Aloha Children’s Art Exhibits were held at Honolulu Hale-City Hall, the State Capital, and Kapi‘olani Community College. This project operates out of the PJRC—Nadao Yoshinaga Peace Center (Chinatown). Learn more

Pono—The Way of Living by researcher and scholar Malcolm Naea Chun (A book in the Ka Wana Series)

Malcolm Chun shares the importance of the Hawaiian value of pono in this first writing in a series of highly informative, research-based books about Hawaiian culture. In Pono, The Way of Living, Chun explores why pono is the core value for critical Native Hawaiian thinking and decision making. Learn more

Safe Schools/Healthy Students Initiative

This initiative is a Federal grant-making program designed to prevent violence and substance abuse among our Nation’s youth, schools, and communities. Various resources are available, including: Show Me How Video (PSA):http://www.sshs.samhsa.gov/initiative/commercial.aspxShow Me How is an award-winning 90-second video “commercial” for the SS/HS Initiative, produced by the Communication & Social Marketing Center. Using cutting-edge techniques taken from music videos and original music performed by 11- to 13-year old young people, Show Me How depicts the challenges facing youth in our communities and the successful solutions provided by SS/HS. Spotlight on Success: Search this Web site to read about various successful programs and projects geared to promote safe and healthy school environments:http://www.sshs.samhsa.gov/initiative/spotlight.aspx

Spark M. Matsunaga Institute for Peace & Conflict Resolution

The Matsunaga Institute for Peace & Conflict Resolution is a center of learning, research, and service in peace studies, conflict resolution, and human rights. This Institute envisions “a university, community and world where the prevention, management, and resolution of conflict are a shared enterprise”. Their Web site shares what they do for outreach services to the public. Learn more

Teen LinK Hawaiʻi

Teen Link Hawaii is a youth empowerment service created to give Hawaii teens access to helpful information and resources covering a wide range of teen related topics. Learn more

Youth Speaks Hawai‘i

The mission of Youth Speaks Hawai‘i is to promote teen literacy and civic engagement through the performance art of slam poetry. This form of activism provides students with a creative way to share their understandings and beliefs. Oratory skills are not new in Hawaiian culture, where history was documented through story and chant. http://youthspeakshawaii.wordpress.com

Global Resources

Chalk for Peace

CHALK4PEACE is a non-profit that guides this worldwide event where people turn sidewalks into messages promoting peace. Visit the CHALK4PEACE Web site to find out how to join over three hundred sites worldwide to create and share messages and visions of peace. Learn more

Cultivating Peace

This Canadian educational initiative, sponsored by the non-profit organization Classroom Connections, includes lessons relevant to students around the world. Their free downloads feature interactive lessons geared to promote a deeper understanding of thoughts and actions critical for the evolution of peace on our planet. These interactive experiences are most appropriate for secondary students.Learn more

Do Something

This action oriented program offers motivating ideas for students to create clubs and campaigns that make a difference in their communities. They also award grants and scholarships. Learn more

Youth Info

This government sponsored Web site features information about young people on a wide variety of topics. It includes a directory of federally sponsored evidence-based programs that are examples of what others are doing to encourage students to understand the importance of respect and peace. Type into the word search box words like “Peace” and “Bullying” to find links to various programs around the country. Learn more

International Peace Poem

Join writers from around the globe to create a worldwide peace poem. This organization states that if we believe that violence in daily life can influence the way children think and behave, then it’s also important to spend time helping people actively move toward a pattern of peaceful thoughts and behavior. Learn more

Pennies for Peace

Pennies for Peace is an international service-learning program with tens of thousands of participants around the globe. According to their Web site: “This program provides the tools to open your world and empower communities through education in Pakistan and Afghanistan.” This service-learning program includes: a K-12 curriculum, linked to standards with an assessment tool; an implementation guide; fact sheets; printable maps, postcards, stickers & poster components; remarkable videos that open the world of Pennies for Peace; and much more! Learn more

SPECIAL EDUCATION IS ABOUT SPECIAL CHILDREN

The last person you might expect to give a booming spoken-word performance is a seemingly soft-spoken teacher. But Craig Duchemin, a special education teacher at Charles Hart Middle School in Washington, D.C., found that it was one of the best ways to reach his students — namely, those with autism. He uses unique strategies to connect with kids of all backgrounds, and poetry set to music is his most recent approach. Watch